A giant in every way, including physical stature, willpower, enthusiasm, energy, libertinism, and refusal to accept old conventions, Tsar Peter the Great (1672–1725) grew up in an atmosphere of fear, suspicion, and violent court rivalries; he gained power, at the age of 17, by ousting his half sister Sophia. But what has earned Peter his place in history is his forcibly tearing his country from its traditional, oriental customs and beliefs and integrating it into modern Europe. Derek Wilson tells his extraordinary story in an energetic narrative with atmospheric detail, underscoring the impact that Peter and his new Russia made in the wider world.

"Simultaneously developing Peter I's character and providing a narrative of his life, Wilson depicts traits such as restless curiosity and a markedly despotic streak within events such as his European tour of 1697–98 and his suppression of any perceived disloyalty. Suggesting Peter's political ruthlessness originated in the contested circumstances of his ascension to the throne, Wilson reminds readers that the achievements that underlie his appellation of 'the Great'—territorial expansion, creation of St. Petersburg, and a spate of government and social reform modeled on Western practice—flowed from the autocratic power Peter wielded. However impressed subsequent generations have been, the human price of Peter's ventures was huge, especially in his war with Charles XII of Sweden. Yet the Great Northern War's victorious outcome inducted Russia into Europe's international politics, one of many examples of Peter the Great's long-lasting legacy. Wilson's portrait is a fine introduction to the man and his reign."—Booklist